Whether you want bold patterns, artistic brush strokes, cute quotes, or minimalist elegance, this project allows you to do it all your way.
You will need the following supplies:
Item Purpose
Plain pillow covers (canvas, linen, cotton) The base for your design
Fabric paint or fabric markers For permanent artwork
Sponge brushes or paintbrushes To apply paint
Stencil or painter’s tape For neat patterns or designs
Cardboard insert To prevent bleed-through
Iron To set the paint (if needed)
Throw pillow inserts For stuffing the covers
Design Ideas:
Style Design
Boho Tribal prints, moons, sunbursts, feathers
Minimalist Simple shapes, dots, modern lines
Nature-Inspired Leaves, florals, cacti, botanical outlines
Text-based Quotes, affirmations, initials
Abstract Brush strokes, marbling, geometric blocks
Custom Printed Throw Pillows: Step-by-Step
Prepare the Pillow Cover
Wash and iron the cover (especially cotton or linen)
Insert cardboard or plastic sheet inside to prevent paint bleeding
Pre-wash removes factory coatings under which paint resists.
- Choose Your Design Method Here are 3 easy options:
Freehand Painting
Pencil sketch or dive right in painting
Use sponge brushes for texture and sometimes paintbrushes for detail
Blend, layer, and play!
Stencil Work Tape stencil in place over the fabric Dab paint using a sponge (don’t brush-it bleeds!) Only peel when finished, letting dry
Geometric with Painter’s Tape Create triangles, stripes, grids Tape off sections to paint between lines for a crisply designed result Remove tape once dry for that satisfying snap!
- Allow to Dry Completely
Takes about 4-6 hours to dry completely (fabric paint sometimes requires longer) Some fabric paints require heat-setting-use an iron over parchment paper to seal in.
Always keep it per your paint instructions for best results.
- Put In Your Pillow & Fluff! Then, once they’re dry and set, put in your insert and fluff away! Boom-your couch is now a personal art gallery.
Bonus Ideas:
Extra Description
Add Pom-Pom Trim or Tassels Glue or sew onto the edge.
Use Iron-On Vinyl Great for crisp quotes and modern icons.
Mix Fabrics Add printed fabric patches or faux leather corners.
Natural Dyes Tie-dye with turmeric, beet juice, and indigo.
Why You’ll Love This DIY:
Totally custom-Your art, your words, your style.
Totally inexpensive-No need for pricey designer pillows!
Great to gift-Housewarming, a birthday, and even a holiday!
It’s therapy-For therapeutic bliss, paint some fabric!
Show It Off!
Post pictures of your stylishly new pillows, and tag your cozy creations with #LeInteriore-they will look perfectly store-bought to everyone but you, who will know for sure they are 100% handmade.